Most people think advocacy only involves legislation. Standing up for others and addressing their issues does not have to include politics. Advocacy is any action that speaks in favor of, recommends, supports, or defends on behalf of others. It means supporting others to understand their rights, express their views, and air their voices. You can advocate in many ways, including advocating for corporations to change their practices, have employers promote equity and inclusivity, or advocate for more diversity in workplaces.
What Is the Purpose of Advocacy?
Advocacy works towards changing the situation for persons who share similar problems. This may range from fighting for inclusivity for people with disabilities; to monitoring the implementation of international human rights at the local level; to fighting against gender-based violence.
Advocacy is very important, especially in corporates, non-profit organizations, and government organizations. It aims to bring change, whether it’s through public awareness, offering support, contracting advocacy services, or influencing policies for a particular issue.
In summary, advocacy helps people to:
- Express their views, thoughts, and concerns
- Have access to information and guidance in a way they can understand
- Discover choices and options for services and care
- Protect and promote their rights
What are the Different Types of Advocacy?
There are several types of advocacy. However, the best advocacy for your needs will depend on your goals, objectives, and the resources at your disposal. Some of the most common types of advocacy include:
- Self-advocacy: This involves standing up for your rights and representing your views and interests without fear.
- Individual advocacy: this type of advocacy involves championing the rights of others, whether it’s an individual, organization, or group. For instance, a lawyer may advocate on behalf of their client, or an advocacy service provider may advocate for individuals’ or organizations’ rights.
- Systems advocacy: System advocacy aims to change rules and policies on a particular issue, either at the local, state, or national level. Individuals and organizations participate in systems advocacy.
How to Involve Your Organization in Advocacy
Below are some of the ways you can involve advocacy in your organization:
- Educate your organization about the current policies and problems affecting your community.
- Do your organization’s programs involve advocacy? Evaluate and examine your mission and goals to ensure that your current programs address your employees’ grievances and other problems in the organization.
- Collaborate with groups whose philosophy and goals resonate with yours. You can do this by pooling staff, resources, and professional advocates to work for change.
Applied Development LLC Offers Advocacy Services
If your organization is looking for advocacy services, Applied Development can help. We advocate for the rights of people of all abilities to work and communicate effectively. Our services include sign language interpretating, Communications Access Real-Time Translation (CART), Section 508 compliance, and strategic communications.
Our expert team members have a wealth of experience and knowledge that can significantly benefit your organization. We help organizations of all sizes, whether it’s corporate, education, or government in Baltimore County and beyond. Give us a today at (410) 571-4016 for more information about our services or reach out through our website.